Luckily for me the $140 tickets were free, as after an hour and a half of not recognizing a song played nor a word that was sung I told the group I was with to pick me up at the bar on there way out. It was interesting to see their entrance, but it was just way,way to loud for me..my ears are still ringing this morning. It seemed to me that these guys, dressed as they were, and with Gene Simmons tongue flailing around drooling on everyone, was about 20 years past done! The funny thing is that before the show we were talking about the band and I mentioned that during my days in university in the 70's it seemed we never listened to Kiss and I really didn't know why. Two songs in and I knew why.

Saw the Decemberists last night at the Vogue Theatre here in Vancouver - incredible. They played 2 full sets, unusual for a rock show, with the first set being basically a front-to-back performance of their new album...no pauses, no breaks, no between-song banter, just full-on huge. For those who aren't familiar with the band, they take a pretty strong concept approach to their albums, weaving common elements through the whole thing. The live show that they create to go along with this is a sight (and sound) to behold.

Agreed - it took me a while to really understand what they were all about, and to really get into them. But I think that's what also gives music like this staying power.

A side note...a few years back I happened to catch a show of theirs on TV, that was recorded at the Austin City Limits festival while they were touring for The Crane Wife. I've looked everywhere for a copy to buy, with no luck - anyone have any thoughts? I've seen a few other ACL shows on DVD, just not that one.

A side note...a few years back I happened to catch a show of theirs on TV, that was recorded at the Austin City Limits festival while they were touring for The Crane Wife. I've looked everywhere for a copy to buy, with no luck - anyone have any thoughts? I've seen a few other ACL shows on DVD, just not that one.

Cheers, Eric

Are you referring to the 2005 ACL Festival? The Decemberist are on it but just for one song due to the DVD having so many various artist playing.

I went to see Sir Paul McCartney at Fed-Ex Field in Maryland last Saturday night. He played for almost 2 and a half hours. Heck, I found it hard standing that long and I'm 48. He ripped through a great set which can be found on the internet. The sound was excellent for a arena show. It it almost a surreal feeling when you go see a man of this magnitude. I enjoyed it and recommend it immensely to anyone who might have a chance to see him.

Recently had the pleasure of visiting the Cambridge Folk Arts Festival, and saw a two piece called Sheesham and Lotus....very cool

The great part is that this is a small, multiple stage (less than 100 people per venue) and while waiting to see them, I happened to be walking by a park located behind one of the bar venues. I heard music and ventured into the park, and there they were sitting there playing for the enjoyment!!!I wandered up, sat down and chatted with them while they played